Purim is celebrated by the reading of the Scroll of Esther, known in Hebrew as the Megillat Esther, which relates the basic story of Purim. Under the rule of King Ahashuerus, Haman, the King's prime minister, plots to exterminate all of the Jews of Persia. His plan is foiled by Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai, who ultimately save the Jews of the land from destruction. The reading of the megillah is typically a rowdy affair, punctuated by booing and noise-making when Haman's name is read aloud.Purim is an unusual holiday in many respects. First, Esther is the only Book of the Bible in which God is not mentioned. Second, Purim, like Chanukah, is viewed traditionally as a minor festival, but elevated to a major holiday as a result of the Jewish historical experience. Over the centuries, Haman became the embodiment of every anti-Semite in every land where Jews were oppressed. The significance in Purim lies not so much in how it began, but in what it has become - a thankful and joyous affirmation of Jewish survival against all odds.

How can I celebrate Purim with TBE? Lots of ways!

On Erev Purim, Wednesday, February 28, 2018, celebrate with the whole TBE community at a Backwards Dinner at 6:00 pm. What's backwards about it? We're starting with ice cream and ending with pizza! Make sure we know you're coming by RSVPing here >>

After dinner, members and friends of all ages are invited to join us for a Megillah reading and a new and exciting a sing-a-long that tells the Purim story.

On Sunday, March 4, 2018, Limud will celebrate Purim in assembly.

At 12:15 pm, Yaldeinu will have a special Purim Assembly, and for the first time ever, will be able to enjoy the carnival all alone before...

The big kids join the fun at 1:15 pm! All are invited to join this community-wide party full of games, prizes, food and fun for the entire family! Costumes welcome!

Our Purim Carnival is completely planned and run by our 6th and 7th grade students as part of their Ma'asim Tovim ("Good Acts") projects. Throughout the year, our 6th and 7th grade students join a long-term community service group. While volunteering, students engage in service learning in order to form deep connections between the volunteer work and Jewish tradition. Each Purim, our students plan games and activities inspired by the work they're doing to raise awareness and money for our partner organizations - every dollar you spend goes to support an organization like Framingham Head Start, Hebrew Senior Life, Family Promise, and more!

In addition to our work with our partner organizations, we collect supermarket gift cards for Yad Chessedto support individuals and families in our community by alleviating economic distress and helping them reach financial stability. Bring a gift card and receive 5 free tickets for the carnival!